聽(INQUIRER fiole photo / JILSON SECKLER TIU)
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� President Ferdinand 鈥淏ongbong鈥� Marcos Jr. on Thursday enjoined Muslims to seek for forgiveness and peace while praying for people in distress as the holy month of Ramadan begins Thursday.
鈥淭he spiritual belief that the gate of Heaven is open during this sacred month calls upon our brothers and sisters to purify their souls against the perils of worldly pleasures as well as seek for forgiveness and peace,鈥� Marcos Jr. said in his Ramadan message.
鈥淭his season of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving is an opportune time to embody the values of discipline, reverence, and humility,鈥� he added.
People in distress
鈥淚n between thanking the Almighty for answered prayers and asking for sustained graces, let us also include in our daily prayers those who are in deep distress caused by hunger, natural calamities, and unfavorable circumstances,鈥� Marcos Jr. said.
鈥淭he rituals and services during Ramadan remind us of our shared moral obligation 鈥� regardless of faith 鈥� to compassionately take care of each other, uphold our human dignity, and stand in solidarity.鈥�
Ramadan
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is one of the most sacred times for Muslims.
For 30 days, Muslims worldwide will observe a strict daily fast from dawn until sunset.
During this period, the faithful abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs. Ramadan is also a time for self-discipline, spiritual reflection, and acts of charity.
This year, the Ramadan begins on March 23 and will end on April 20.